Editor's Note: The following first appeared in the University of Iowa's Hawk Talk Daily, an e-newsletter that offers a daily look at the Iowa Hawkeyes, delivered free each morning to thousands of fans of the Hawkeyes worldwide.

IOWA CITY, Iowa -- Nearly 20 years after committing to former University of Iowa football coach Hayden Fry, Iowa City native Tim Dwight remains committed to his home town and alma mater.

The former Hawkeye All-American and Iowa City High graduate is running the 5K at the National Iowa Varsity Club's inaugural "Fitness for Life" event this Saturday at the Ashton Cross Country Course in Iowa City. The "Fitness for Life" initiative is designed to develop positive habits that will lead to a lifetime of healthy choices and active lifestyles in athletes of all ages.

The first-year program was created by the National Iowa Varsity Club, the membership organization comprised of all former University of Iowa student-athletes who have earned a Varsity letter during their careers. Dwight was inducted into the organization's Hall of Fame in 2011, and this year a portion of the "Fitness for Life" proceeds will benefit the Iowa City Community School District and Iowa City Regina K-6 physical education programs.

Dwight said that partnership made his decision to become involved a no-brainer.

"Trevor Bollers (Varsity Club President) called me, explained their mission and asked if I'd run in a 5K and I said 'absolutely.' I want to support the Iowa City Community School District. I grew up here; I take a lot of pride in being from Iowa City, and I want to support the schools.

"I think both of these organizations bring a lot of passion and excitement to the community, and it's great to be on both sides of it. You have to have good partners in any type of venue or business and it's awesome that the university and the school district could come together to promote a great cause."

Iowa City Community School District Superintendent Stephen F. Murley has embraced the relationship with the National Iowa Varsity Club and its "Fitness for Life" mission.

"In the Iowa City Community School District physical education is an important part of educating the whole child," said Murley. "The district appreciates community support to educate our students about the benefits of physical activity and the way it contributes to a healthy lifestyle."

This weekend's event includes running options for people of all ages and skill levels. A one-mile Fun Run will begin at 8 a.m., and the 5K -- which includes six ages divisions for males and females -- begins at 9 a.m. Entry fee for the 5K is $30 per person and includes chip timing, a moisture-wicking t-shirt and event bag. The Fun Run entry fee is $10 and includes a commemorative bib number and a participant ribbon.

Participants can register for the event by visiting RaceMonkey.com. The deadline to register is Wednesday, June 27.

Following both runs, all participants are invited to attend a complementary tailgate that will include plenty of Hawkeye entertainment. There will be games for kids and appearances by Herky the Hawk and the University of Iowa cheer and dance squads.

The University of Iowa Roy G. Karro Athletics Hall of Fame Building will also be open to the public at no charge this weekend. Fans are encouraged to tour the facility and enjoy a bit of Hawkeye history when the University of Iowa announces its 2012 Athletics Hall of Fame class Friday at 6:30 p.m.